South China Sea. (February 19, 2023) In this photo by MC2 Minh-Thy Chu, MC3 Eloise Johnson instructs a yoga class during morale day on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island while on patrol in the South China Sea. Morale day included a high-intensity interval training workout, yoga, golfing, fishing, and a 5K run on the flight deck. These activities are part of the Navy’s’ efforts to boost morale aboard warships that operate for long periods at sea.

The Navy has faced morale challenges in the past, according to the Navy Times, due to the relentless mission pace of America’s military. Sailors and Marines work exhausting schedules over many months that can lead to fatigue and a lack of focus on critical tasks, something that can prove deadly in wartime. The Navy recognizes the stress multiple deployments are having on personnel and is responding with programs to relieve boredom and boost morale.

The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group is comprised of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island, the amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage, and the USS John P. Murtha. The Group is named after the Battle of Makin, an engagement of the Pacific campaign during World War II.